Big Sky Broomball League kicks off Jan. 6

BIG SKY – The Big Sky Broomball League’s regular season officially begins Jan. 6, with games taking place on Tuesday evenings from 6:30-10 p.m. at the ice rink in Town Center through mid-March. However, a few December scrimmages and information sessions are scheduled so players can get practice time and learn more about the sport before league play.

A four-team, double-elimination tournament fundraiser is also scheduled during the Big Sky Christmas Stroll on Friday, Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the charity of the winning team’s choice. Those new to broomball are invited to attend the scrimmages and information sessions on Dec. 23 and Dec. 30 as well.

This year, two games will be played at once, which league organizer Jason Meyers says is key to the sport’s growth in Big Sky.

“It will allow us more games, more time for people to play, and more teams,” Meyers said.

The Big Sky Skating and Hockey Association donated new gear this season, including nets, sticks, balls and dividers, allowing the league to expand to a maximum of 16 teams of 10-12 players each, according to BSSHA’s website.

“A perfect [sized] team is about 10 players with five on the ice at a time,” Meyers said.

This winter marks the adult league’s fourth season playing in Town Center, but games were held outside the Summit Hotel at Big Sky Resort beginning in 2001, according to Meyers.

Kids broomball is offered Tuesday nights from 5-6 p.m. Helmets are required, and all other equipment is available at the rink free of charge.